U.S. President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose 100% tariffs on movies made outside of the United States, claiming the nation’s film industry is “dying a very fast death.” The proposed policy is part of a broader wave of tariffs aimed at revitalizing American manufacturing and creative sectors, though the details remain vague.
Trump alleges a “concerted effort” by other countries to lure U.S. studios abroad with lucrative incentives, calling it a “national security threat.” Yet it’s unclear whether the tariffs would apply to American production companies shooting overseas a practice common in recent blockbusters like Deadpool & Wolverine, Wicked, and Gladiator II, which were filmed in countries like Australia and New Zealand.
The announcement has triggered swift reactions from foreign governments. Australia’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke vowed to protect his country’s screen industry, while New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon pledged continued support for local film production as his administration awaits more clarity on the tariffs.
Trump’s aggressive trade stance has already strained international relations. China recently announced it would reduce the quota of American films permitted in its cinemas, citing U.S. tariff actions. “Abusing tariffs on China will inevitably further reduce audience favourability towards American films,” said China’s Film Administration.
Despite this turmoil, the U.S. remains a significant global film production center. However, production spending fell 26% in 2023 to $14.54 billion, according to industry firm ProdPro, while spending increased in nations like the UK, Canada, and Australia.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick signaled full support for Trump’s directive, stating, “We’re on it.” Trump also appointed Hollywood veterans Jon Voight, Mel Gibson, and Sylvester Stallone as special envoys to champion a Hollywood revival, declaring: “We want movies made in America, again!”
With global trade tensions mounting and the entertainment industry caught in the crossfire, the full impact of Trump’s latest tariffs remains to be seen. However, the message is clear: Trump’s administration is prepared to use tariffs as a cultural and economic weapon.
